The Kitchen Lounge
Our Kitchen Lounge project was approached with a clear belief that every interior has to begin with a story, and that story always starts with the client. In this case, the goal was to transform an existing restaurant concept into a dedicated event space that felt intimate, flexible, and transportive. The client envisioned a venue where guests could easily imagine gathering for milestones both personal and professional, from wedding rehearsals to corporate celebrations.
Rather than replicating the industrial character of the original community bistro and bar, our kitchen Interior designer Madison Shoemaker saw an opportunity to create a distinct offshoot of the brand. The design needed to feel like a departure (cozier, moodier, and more layered) while still maintaining a connection to the globally inspired restaurant next door. The idea of a speakeasy-like lounge quickly took hold, setting the tone for a space described as “sultry, with a vintage soul and modern edge.”
Transforming a busy restaurant into an inviting, lounge-forward environment presented a creative challenge that Madison embraced. She prioritized sustainability and budget-conscious design decisions by retaining much of the existing architectural framework and functional furnishings already in place. This approach not only reduced waste but allowed the character of the building to inform the next chapter of its story. She also opted to collaborate closely with local antique curator Librarity Vintage, sharing her vision for layout, color, and scale. Together, they sourced one-of-a-kind pieces that bring depth and individuality to the design, while ensuring each item was restored and ready for commercial use.
To soften the industrial bones of the space, Madison layered in rich textures, moody lighting, and storied materials. Antiques and secondhand furnishings became a driving force in the design, providing warmth, and a sense of history that grounded the overall design concept. Many of these pieces helped guide the direction of the project, influencing everything from the color palette to the final layout.
The resulting material story is anchored by velvet upholstery, deep jewel tones, dark cabinetry, wood, and exposed brick. These elements work together to create a sense of intimacy while still aligning with the client’s established brand identity. Inspired by the client’s love of travel and global cuisine, Madison incorporated decorative accents with international influence, adding subtle layers of cultural reference throughout the space.
Balancing vintage charm with modern operational needs required thoughtful placement and material choices. In high-traffic areas, Madison prioritized durability and ease of maintenance, reserving antique and delicate pieces for moments where they could be appreciated without excessive wear. While some statement furnishings may require refreshing over time, many vintage pieces were selected for their superior craftsmanship and longevity as they often outperforming newly manufactured alternatives.
Service areas were styled with intention, featuring antique books, stained glass panels, plants, and found objects that draw the eye away from day-to-day operations. These details add visual intrigue and invite guests to discover small, meaningful moments throughout the space.
The finished lounge transports you to a different world, with interesting details around every corner that reflect Madison’s ability to blend narrative-driven design with practical hospitality needs. It is a space that feels timeless yet adaptable, layered yet welcoming and one where vintage character and contemporary function coexist to create an atmosphere designed for connection, celebration, and lasting impressions.
If you’re looking to partner with a kitchen interior designer in Denver, Colorado, contact our team to start your own story-driven project and bring a space to life that’s uniquely yours.
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